Defense Minister Israel Katz Denies Live Dismissal of Central Command Chief, Calls It Political Campaign

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a detailed clarification on Monday denying claims that he dismissed Central Command Chief Major General Avi Blot during a live interview. Katz called the allegations "an absolute lie" and described the criticism against him as a "political campaign aimed against the government." The controversy erupted after Katz announced on the Channel 14 program "The Patriots" the appointment of Major General Dado Bar-Kalifa, head of the IDF's Planning Directorate, as the new Central Command chief. This announcement sparked sharp criticism from both right and left-wing figures, who accused Katz of publicly ousting Blot on live television.

In his clarification, Katz presented a timeline to prove that the decision to appoint Bar-Kalifa had been made months before the interview. He noted that on April 24, Channel 12 reported that the IDF Chief of Staff had recommended Bar-Kalifa for the position. Katz said he approved the recommendation on July 28 after interviewing Bar-Kalifa and deciding he was the best candidate. Katz emphasized that during the interview, when a participant called for Blot's dismissal, he immediately and clearly responded "no," and that the exchange was recorded.

Katz further argued that the controversy was a media attempt to divert attention from the real issue: the potential appointment of Yair Golan as defense minister, who Katz claimed had threatened to dismiss another general and might reinstate officials from an "old concept" that could harm settlements and Israel's security. Katz assured that such actions would not happen under his watch.

Earlier Monday, the Yesha Council expressed full support for General Blot, praising his "offensive leadership" and close, respectful cooperation with the settlements. The council also backed Defense Minister Katz and announced plans to meet with him later in the day.